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at least
at least
1. No less than (a certain amount). I didn't expect so many guests! We'll need at least five more seats at the table for dinner. I try to keep at least $1,000 in my bank account at all times.
2. Used to emphasize a positive occurrence amid disappointments. At least it only rained for two days of your trip! OK so Tom didn't come over tonight. At least he still called you.
at least
anyway; in spite of difficulties. At least we had a good evening, even though the afternoon was rainy. At least we came away with some of our money left.
at (the very) least
1. not less than
At least 73,000 homes are without power in the Atlanta area. The repair will cost $100 at the very least. Usage notes: always used with a particular amount or measure: At the least, the room is 30 feet long.
2. more exactly
at any rate I can handle it – at least, I think I can. The car was damaged, but at least no one was hurt. Usage notes: often used to make a statement sound less strong
3. whatever happens
At least Josh tried to apologize. At the very least, you should call to tell me that you've arrived there safely. Usage notes: the same meaning can be also expressed by come hell or high water, come what may, either way, in any case, and in any event
at least
1. Also, at the least. According to the lowest possible assessment, no less than. For example, At least a dozen more chairs are needed, or The job will take four hours at the least. [c. 1050]
2. Anyway, anyhow, as in
At least you got there on time, or
The children enjoyed the dessert at least. [c. 1050] For synonyms, see
at any rate;
in any case.
at least
1. According to the lowest possible assessment; not less than: We waited at least an hour.
2. Regardless of what has occurred or will occur; in any case: You might at least answer the letter.
3. Used to emphasize a somewhat positive aspect following a negative one: The results weren't encouraging, but at least they were accurate.